Professor Albrecht Classen's Early Books Lecture Series going strong after 16 years

Wednesday, March 13, 2019

Every spring, Special Collections hosts the Early Books Lecture Series where University of Arizona scholars explore the treasure trove of medieval texts held by the University Libraries. The series was founded by Albrecht Classen, University Distinguished Professor and Undergraduate Advisor in the Department of German Studies, whose broad research interests cover the history of medieval and early modern German and European literature and culture from about 800 to 1800.

Professor Classen teaches a class in the library

In 2003, Professor Classen decided that he wanted the entire community to know how Special Collections' holding of medieval, Renaissance and early modern texts have inspired scholarship across the UA campus and beyond. Consequently, the Early Books Lecture Series was born. For each Series, he invites two UA scholars to join him in giving presentations which are free and open to the public. Speakers have represented a variety of departments, including Architecture, Classics, French & Italian, History, Religious Studies, and Spanish & Portuguese. You can find audio recordings of some of these past lectures on Soundcloud.

Professor Classen kicks off the 16th Early Books Lecture Series kicks off on April 3 at 6 p.m. in Special Collections, which is located next door to the Main Library. Reserve your seat at the free event.

Watch this video where Professor Classen talks about how Special Collections supports his research